Google Event Recap: Pixel, Pixel XL, Chromecast Ultra And More

Google's Oct.4 event has been anticipated for months. The company has unveiled a total of six new devices, including the Pixel and Pixel XL phones. However, the new Pixel Chromebook that will run a hybrid Andromeda OS was not included, contrary to rumors that Google will also reveal their new Pixel laptop and tablet at the event.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai pointed out the significance of artificial intelligence. He mentioned how A.I. is used to connect all these devices. Pichai said that their new hardware will bring visions to life. In a video by Bloomberg, he added that the company is deeply committed to making that possible.

Google Pixel and Pixel XL Smartphones

According to Variety, Google did not partner with any phone manufacturers for the new Pixel smartphones. Their new flagship phones Pixel and Pixel XL are solely made by Google.

The tech company did not focus on the phone's fast quad-core processor, 4GB of RAM and up to 128GB of storage. Instead, Google's VP of Product Management Brian Rakowski showcased the phone's camera. He considers it as the "best smartphone camera.". It is supposedly much better than those of Apple and Samsung.

The camera has a 12.3-megapixel rear camera, but its foremost feature is the video stabilization. Google has displayed a video showing the difference. When the feature is turned on, the video recording stabilizes. This is even though the user is actually moving.

Google also announced that they are offering unlimited storage for photos and videos at full resolution. It's now available for pre-order at the company's website. The 5 and 5.5-inch smartphones will cost you at least $649. The shipping will start on Oct. 20.

The Pixel phones will also be built-in with the new Google Assistant.

Google Assistant

Pichai describes the Google Assistant as a "natural dialogue between users and Google." It is basically Google's version of Apple's Siri. This is part of Google's goal of furthering artificial intelligence. The company divulged that they are putting A.I. at the center of both their hardware and software sections.

In particular, Pichai mentioned that they worked on machine translation and image recognition. Google wants the Google Assistant to be put out there for the users. The assistant is not only integrated into the new Pixel phones. It is also embedded in the Google Home.

Google Home

Google Home is Google's version of Amazon's Echo. Commands are triggered through the user's voice. That means it works hands-free. It can be used to turn on lights, switches and thermostats. The design includes a white top and clean diagonal face. Google picked the neutral look so that the device is able to blend in.

The company has partnered with NEST, SmartThings, Philips U and IFTT. It will be available in early November at a price of $129.

Apparently, Google Home can also connect users to current Chromecast streaming adapters.

Chromecast Ultra

The new 4K Chromecast Ultra video streamer is both capable of 4K and HDR streaming. That is if the TV being used is able to support such quality. The power adapter of Chromecast Ultra is also equipped with an Ethernet port. This is needed for the 4K bandwidth.

The Chromecast Ultra will hit stores in November at the price of $69. It will also be available in Google's online store.

Google Daydream View

The Daydream View is Google's take on "high-quality mobile virtual reality". It should make VR technology simple and more accessible.

The VR headset has a design that uses fabrics. It looks and feels very comfortable. It is obviously different from other VR headsets in the market. It also comes in three colors. Google calls them Slate, Snow and Crimson.

Variety reports that a phone will serve as the display for the VR headset. A small external clicker remote is also provided for. The Daydream View and the controller will be sold together for $79. They will go on sale in November.

Google WiFi Router

The new Google WiFi router is all previous Google routers combined. It has a broader range of wireless internet. The Google WiFi is able to reach every spot, even on houses with thick stucco walls.

Another new feature is it allows the user more control of the WiFi. It can prioritize devices and turn off internet access. The users can still use their OnHub router alongside the new Google WiFi.

The new router is up for pre-order in November at $129. However, it will cost more at $299 with three units.